Introduction to emergency management

1. Introduction to
Emergency
Management
Understanding Complex Emergencies

2. 1. What Are Complex Emergencies?
•A complex emergency refers to a humanitarian crisis in a country, region, or society where there is
a total or considerable breakdown of authority due to internal or external conflict.
•These emergencies require an international response that goes beyond the capacity of any single
agency or the ongoing UN country program1.

3. 2. Characteristics of Complex Emergencies:
•Civil Conflict and Displacement: Often arising from armed conflicts, these emergencies result in large numbers
of civilian victims and besieged or displaced populations.
•Human Suffering: The impact is immense, causing widespread suffering.
•International Assistance: Substantial international assistance is needed, exceeding the capacity of any single
agency.
•Challenges for Relief Workers: High security risks for relief workers providing humanitarian aid1.

4. 3. India’s Context: Floods and Droughts
•India faces a dual challenge of floods and droughts. The monsoon has become erratic, leading to extreme
rainfall and sudden droughts.
•Since 1997, India’s drought-prone area has increased by 57%, while heavy rainfall instances have risen by
almost 85% since 20122.
•Mitigation Measures: India has implemented policies and programs to enhance water security, including
flood forecasting models, early warning systems, and dam safety improvements2.

5. 4. EPIC Response Framework: A Paradigm Shift
•The World Bank proposes the EPIC Response framework (Enable, Plan, Invest, Control) to manage floods
and droughts effectively.
•It emphasizes collaboration across sectors, involving government, private sector, local government, academia,
and civil society.
•Assam Pilot: The framework is being piloted in Assam, aiming to reduce vulnerability and develop water
resources sustainably2.

6. 5. Multi-Sectorial Approach
•Beyond Silos: Rather than dealing with floods and droughts in isolation, we need a multi-sectorial
approach.
•Whole-of-Society Involvement: Governments, communities, academia, and private sectors must
collaborate.
•Assessment Tool: A new tool assesses flood and drought protection programs, enhancing collaboration
and tracking progress2.

7. 6. Conclusion
•India’s water challenges demand creative governance and integrated solutions.
•By understanding complex natural emergencies and adopting a holistic approach, we can transform
floods and droughts from disasters into manageable challenges.